English clubs continue to lead the way in the commercialization and professionalization of women’s football, according to a study by the Deloitte Football Money League.
Deloitte’s Sports Business Group is a leading advisor to governments, investors, sports associations and organizations and publishes annual Money League rankings for men’s and women’s football clubs. The women’s ranking includes 15 of the top-grossing clubs for the financial year ending 2024 and focuses on those competing in major football leagues around the world.
The research notes that revenue has not been made available to clubs in Australia, Sweden and the US and is therefore not included in the analysis. The ranking also does not take into account group income, such as: B. Income from club-wide commercial agreements or contributions from their male colleagues.
This year’s analysis of Deloitte Football Money League profiles shows revenue exceeded €100 million for the first time. English clubs continue to lead the way, with eight of the top 15 women’s clubs coming from the WSL.
The importance of the UEFA Women’s Champions League was also highlighted in the research, with the seven non-English clubs all taking part in the group stages of the European competition. Matchday revenues have been boosted by increasing viewership in many leagues, which in turn has led to greater interest from commercial and broadcast partners.
Liga F giant Barcelona is the top-ranked club with a turnover of 17.9 million euros, an increase of 26% compared to the 2022/23 season. Arsenal also came in a close second with 17.9 million euros and increased their matchday revenue by 64% and their advertising revenue by 48% in the 2023/24 season.
Completing the rest of the top five are two other English clubs: Chelsea (13.4 million euros) and Manchester United (10.7 million euros), followed by Real Madrid (10.5 million euros). Other WSL clubs that made it into the top 15 include Manchester City, Aston Villa, Liverpool, Tottenham and Everton.
Tim Bridge, principal partner at Deloitte Sports Business Group, said: “The 35% revenue growth in the 2023/24 season impressively reflects the growth of women’s football in some of its leading markets. Investors and executives are now looking beyond just revenue and are increasingly focusing on club sustainability and growth.
“Commercial partners and broadcasters are now recognizing the growing profile of women’s football and increasing their investment, which in turn attracts larger and more diverse audiences in new addressable markets.
“The expansion of the UEFA Women’s Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup shows the demand for more games and competitions. Combined with the further development of existing competitions, the introduction of new governance and further investments, the participation, professionalization and popularity of women’s football can be increased in the long term.”